Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Jamaica's iconic spicy grilled chicken, deeply marinated in a fiery blend of scotch bonnet peppers, aromatic allspice, fresh thyme, and other island spices. Traditionally smoked over pimento wood for an unparalleled smoky depth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Whole chicken(Cut into 8 serving pieces (or use bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks))
- 4-6 Scotch bonnet peppers(Adjust to your spice preference. Remove seeds and membranes for less heat, or leave them in for maximum fire. Wear gloves when handling.)
- 6 stalks Scallions (green onions)(Trimmed and roughly chopped)
- 2 tbsp Whole allspice berries(Or ground allspice if berries are unavailable)
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme sprigs(Leaves stripped from stems)
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves(Peeled)
- 2 tbsp Fresh ginger(Peeled and roughly chopped)
- 60 ml Soy sauce(Provides saltiness and umami)
- 60 ml Fresh lime juice(About 2 limes)
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar(Helps with caramelization)
- 1 tsp Salt(Optional, adjust based on soy sauce saltiness)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground)
- 1 handful Pimento wood or wood chips(Optional but highly recommended for authentic smoky flavor. Soak wood chips for 30 minutes before use.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Jerk Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the scotch bonnet peppers (stems removed, seeds and membranes optional depending on heat preference), chopped scallions, allspice berries (or ground allspice), fresh thyme leaves, peeled garlic cloves, and peeled ginger. Add the soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Blend until a coarse paste forms. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or more lime juice to help it blend. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the thickest parts of the chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breast) about 1/2 inch deep. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeply. Place the chicken in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Massage the marinade into the scores and under the skin where possible. Cover the bowl tightly or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
⏱️ 12-24 hours - 3
Prepare for Grilling: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. Prepare your grill for indirect heat. For charcoal grills, bank the coals to one side. For gas grills, turn on burners on one side and leave the other side off. Aim for a cooking temperature of approximately 180°C (350°F). If using pimento wood or wood chips, add them to the hot coals or place them in a smoker box once the grill is preheated.
⏱️ 15 minutes (preheating) - 4
Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Close the grill lid. Cook for 45-60 minutes, turning the chicken pieces every 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. The skin should be nicely browned and slightly crispy, and the juices should run clear. If using pimento wood, the smoke will infuse the chicken with its characteristic aroma. If the chicken is browning too quickly, you can move it to a cooler part of the grill or tent it loosely with foil.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 5
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the jerk chicken from the grill and let it rest on a clean platter for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve hot with traditional sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh salad.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Handle scotch bonnet peppers with care. Wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes or face. For a milder version, remove all seeds and membranes, or use fewer peppers.
- ✓The authentic smoky flavor comes from pimento (allspice) wood. If unavailable, use soaked hickory or mesquite wood chips on your grill.
- ✓Scoring the chicken deeply is crucial for the marinade to penetrate the meat effectively, ensuring flavor throughout.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the grill. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and proper smoke circulation.
- ✓Marinating overnight is highly recommended for the best flavor and tenderization.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Jerk Pork: Use pork shoulder or ribs, marinated and grilled similarly.
- Jerk Fish: Marinate firm white fish fillets or whole fish and grill or bake.
- Jerk Tofu/Vegetables: Marinate firm tofu or hearty vegetables like plantains, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers.